In the fourth match of the Tri-Nation T20 series held at Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Afghanistan secured a thrilling 18-run victory over Pakistan, extending their winning streak after defeating the hosts in the previous encounter. With this win, Afghanistan climbed to four points, equalling Pakistan, making both teams the likely finalists of the tournament.
Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan won the toss and elected to bat first. The Afghan innings was anchored by Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal, who scored 64 and 65 runs respectively.
Their partnership propelled Afghanistan to a competitive total of 169 runs in the allotted 20 overs. For Pakistan, Faheem Ashraf was the standout bowler, claiming four crucial wickets, while Saim Ayub contributed with one.
Chasing 170, Pakistan struggled to build meaningful partnerships. Fakhar Zaman managed 25 runs, while skipper Salman Agha was dismissed for 20. Despite a blistering performance from Haris Rauf, who smashed 34 runs off just 16 balls including four sixes, Pakistan fell short of the target, finishing at 151 for nine wickets in their 20 overs.
Afghan bowlers executed their plans effectively. Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Noor Ahmed, and Fazalhaq Farooqi each picked up two wickets, applying consistent pressure on the Pakistani batting lineup.
Afghanistan made two changes to their playing XI, resting Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Sharafuddin Ashraf, and including AM Ghazanfar and Noor Ahmad, while Pakistan fielded an unchanged squad.
Earlier in the series, Pakistan had beaten Afghanistan by 39 runs in the opening match and claimed a 31-run victory against the hosts.
After today’s match, both Afghanistan and Pakistan sit level on four points, with UAE still seeking their first win. Pakistan will take on UAE in the fifth match of the series on September 6, with the top two teams set to clash in the final on September 7.
